Enhypen break down in tears as they win Artist of the Year at 2025 MAMA Awards

Enhypen win at MAMA 2025

What unfolded at the 2025 MAMA Awards on 28 November at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium felt less like a typical awards moment and more like a chapter of history being written in real time.

Enhypen, only five years into their career, were announced as the winners of Artist of the Year—the highest distinction of the night and a milestone many artists spend decades working towards.

For a group that began as hopeful trainees on the survival show I-LAND before debuting under HYBE’s Belift Lab in 2020, the achievement carried the weight of every step they had taken to reach this point.

As soon as the group’s name echoed across the stadium, the atmosphere shifted. The cheers from thousands of ENGENEs rolled in like a wave, and the members—usually composed and charismatic under bright lights—were overcome with emotion.

Their tears weren’t dramatic; they were genuine, the sort that arrive only when a long-held dream finally lands in one’s hands.

Leader Jungwon, who was still clearly shaken, aptly described the emotion. With a trembling voice, he admitted just how deeply this moment mattered, saying, "I don't think I've ever wanted something this badly since we debuted. Thank you endlessly. We will work harder to show you amazing sides of us".

Sunghoon, reflecting on the timing of it all, noted how symbolic the win felt with their fifth anniversary only two days away. To him, it was a celebration made possible by fans, expressed in his message: "This feels like a gift from ENGENEs on our fifth anniversary. We've shared so many laughs, tears, and heartfelt moments. Thank you so much, we love you".

Jay spoke with a quiet steadiness, acknowledging both their struggles and triumphs. He reminded everyone that this victory represented persistence more than perfection: "This award is the result of five years' worth of efforts. We didn't expect to win this, but today our dream came true thanks to you. This isn't the end-we will keep moving forward, proving ourselves and chasing more dreams. Be honest with your dreams. Every dream can become a reality".

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Youngest member Sunoo, tears still slipping down his cheeks, shared a raw, vulnerable moment with fans as he said, "I never imagined this moment. As soon as our name was announced, tears just flowed. I wondered if I really deserve to be on this stage. I thought about how hard we worked and how much the staff supported us. Receiving this gift together makes me so thankful. It's a dream come true".